Merino wool is often considered a "super fabric" due to its exceptional and long list of benefits and properties. It is incredibly soft, breathable, and naturally temperature-regulating, making it ideal for a wide range of applications from base layers to outerwear, to baby clothing, upholstery and more. Whether you're starting a new fashion label or sourcing fabrics for an existing collection, understanding merino wool can help you choose the perfect fabrics for your designs. In this guide, we’ll cover how merino wool fabric is made, its key benefits, and what to look for when buying merino wool fabric and finding the best merino wool fabric suppliers.
What Is Merino Wool Fabric?
Merino wool comes from Merino sheep, a breed known for producing some of the finest and softest wool in the world. Unlike traditional wool, which can feel scratchy, merino wool is smooth and gentle against the skin. Whilst Merino wool has a long standing history that dates back to the 1700s from Spain, today Australia dominates the global fine wool market, producing more than 50 per cent of the world’s merino wool.
What’s the Difference Between Virgin Wool and Merino Wool?
While both virgin wool and Merino wool come from sheep, they differ in softness, fiber diameter, and overall comfort. Virgin wool refers to any wool taken from a sheep’s first shearing—or more generally, wool that has never been processed or recycled. It’s typically coarser, with fiber diameters ranging from 30 to 40 microns, making it feel thicker and sometimes itchy against the skin. It’s warm and durable, but not always ideal for garments worn close to the body.
Merino wool, on the other hand, comes from Merino sheep—a breed prized for producing some of the finest wool in the world. Merino fibers range from just 15.5 to 24 microns, nearly half the thickness of a human hair and well below the 25-micron “itch threshold.” This ultrafine structure makes Merino wool exceptionally soft, smooth, and comfortable, even when worn directly against the skin.
- Virgin wool = general wool from first shearing, often coarser
- Merino wool = ultra-fine, soft, and non-itchy—ideal for everyday wear
Is merino wool a good fabric? Absolutely. It offers excellent performance for activewear, base layers, and stylish winter garments. Plus, it's 100% natural and biodegradable.
How Is Merino Wool Fabric Made?
Merino wool is harvested by shearing the fleece of Merino sheep, typically once or twice a year. The raw wool is then washed, carded, and spun into fine yarn. Finally, it’s knit or woven into fabric.
Is 100% merino wool good quality? Yes, high-quality 100% merino wool is prized for its softness, resilience, and natural temperature regulation.
Benefits of Merino Wool Fabric
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Temperature Regulating
Adapts to your environment—stays warm in winter and breathable in summer for all-season comfort. -
Moisture-Wicking
Pulls sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable, even during active wear. -
Odor-Resistant
Naturally fights odor buildup, so you stay fresher for longer—no frequent washing needed. -
Soft & Itch-Free
Gentle on sensitive skin with a smooth, non-itchy feel—perfect for all-day wear. -
Biodegradable
Made from natural fibers that break down over time, making it a more sustainable choice. -
Wrinkle, Static & UV Resistant
Naturally resists wrinkles and static cling, while offering built-in UV protection for sunny days.
Is Merino wool good for winter?
Yes, Merino wool is naturally insulating thanks to the unique shape of its fibers. Merino strands are naturally crimped, which helps them nestle tightly together, forming tiny insulating pockets of air. These pockets trap body heat and prevent it from escaping—like nature’s version of a thermal layer. Because air doesn’t easily transfer heat, your body stays warmer for longer.
Is Merino wool good for summer?
Yes, merino works in the heat too! Merino wool isn’t just for winter layers. On hot days, it performs surprisingly well thanks to its ability to pull moisture away from the body. Merino can hold up to a third of its weight in sweat without feeling wet. That moisture sits inside the fibers rather than on the surface—keeping your skin dry. As your body heats up, the moisture evaporates from the wool, creating a subtle cooling effect. The higher the wool content, the better it performs in warm weather.
What Is Merino Wool Fabric Used For?
1. Base Layers & Undergarments
- Why: Ultra-soft, non-itchy, and naturally moisture-wicking
- Examples: Thermal tops, leggings, camisoles, underwear
- Popular for: Hiking, skiing, travel, or daily layering in cooler weather
2. T-Shirts & Long Sleeves
- Why: Regulates body temperature and stays fresh longer
- Examples: Everyday tees, athletic long sleeves, travel tops
- Great for: Warm or cold climates—works year-round
3. Sweaters & Knitwear
- Why: Lightweight warmth without bulk
- Examples: Crewnecks, turtlenecks, cardigans
- Styles range from: Fine-gauge for sleek office wear to chunky for winter layering
4. Dresses & Skirts
- Why: Drapes beautifully while providing warmth
- Examples: Casual shift dresses, winter midi skirts
- Often blended with other fibers for added structure or stretch
5. Activewear & Outdoor Apparel
- Why: Odor-resistant and quick-drying—ideal for movement
- Examples: Running tops, hiking gear, yoga leggings
- Especially popular in: Performance brands and sustainable sportswear
6. Socks
- Why: Keeps feet dry and comfortable
- Examples: Everyday socks, hiking socks, no-show liners
- Naturally insulating: Stays warm even when damp
7. Lightweight Outerwear
- Why: Naturally insulating but breathable
- Examples: Travel jackets, shackets, capes
- Great for: Transitional seasons or layering pieces
How to Care for Merino Wool Fabric
Merino is easier to care for than many think:
- Wash: Handwash or some merino wool can be machine washed on a gentle cycle
- Dry: Lay flat to dry, avoid tumble drying
- Iron: Low heat if needed, use a pressing cloth
- Storage: Fold neatly and store in a breathable bag
Some of our merino wool fabrics are machine washable, but hand washing can help prolong lifespan.
Where to Buy Merino Wool Fabric & Buying Tips
When sourcing Merino wool fabric—whether online or in-store, it’s important to evaluate key factors that impact performance, comfort, and quality. Here’s what to consider:
Fabric Weight & Thickness
Lightweight (150–200gsm): Ideal for base layers, t-shirts, and breathable activewear.
Midweight to Heavy (200–300gsm): Better suited for sweaters, cardigans, and layering garments with more structure and warmth.
Stretch & Movement
For added flexibility and shape retention, choose Merino blends that include elastane (spandex)—especially useful for fitted garments or activewear.
Fiber Blends for Enhanced Comfort
Look for blends with TENCEL™ Lyocell to boost softness, drape, and moisture management, while maintaining Merino’s natural benefits.
Certifications That Signal Quality
Prioritize fabrics certified by The Woolmark Company, an internationally recognized mark of excellence. Woolmark certification ensures that the Merino fabric meets rigorous standards for fiber purity, performance, durability, and care—backed by extensive lab testing. Here is our full list of merino fabric suppliers with Woolmark certification.
Look for machine washable Merino if your brand opts for easy care—this treatment allows merino wool garments to be machine-washed without felting or shrinking
What is a disadvantage of using merino wool? One major disadvantage brands face with Merino wool is its high cost—both in raw material and production.
Why is merino wool so expensive? The cost reflects its superior softness, ethical farming, and low-yield but high-quality production process.
Why Choose Yardblox Fabrics for Merino Wool?
At Yardblox, we offer premium merino wool fabric with low minimums, in a range of weights and colors—perfect for brands starting out or those looking for a new merino wool fabric supplier. We work with a close network of some of the best merino wool fabric suppliers with a wide range of variety to choose from.
